After about 8 hours of relative calm, Hamas launched a massive barrage on Israeli cities in the south, including as far as Beersheba and its environs.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook and Twitter
First responders were immediately dispatched to look at potential damage.
Despite a report on a direct hit on a home Ashkelon as a result of that barrage, there were no fatalities or major injuries. One person sustained minor injuries in the city as well.
The massive salvo came on the heels of conflicting reports that the 11-day conflict was nearing an end. On Wednesday, Hamas officials initially said they were no longer willing to accept the terms of an Egyptian proposal for a cessation of hostilities, but several hours later Hamas said it was optimistic that one can be brokered by the week's end.
Subscribe to Israel Hayom's daily newsletter and never miss our top stories!